Differin cream or gel contains the active ingredient, adapalene, which is used to treat mild to moderate acne. Adapalene is classed as a third generation retinoid (a form of vitamin). It works to reduce inflammation and blackhead/whitehead formation by reducing the growth of the keratin surface skin cells that can block pores. Differin is ideal for daily use to treat and prevent acne breakouts.

Patient Information Leaflet (from EMC): https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/920/pil

Dosage

Wash and dry the acne affected areas with warm water and apply a thin layer of Differin cream/gel to the affected areas once daily at bedtime. Ensure that it is applied to the whole area and not just individual spots. Rub the cream/gel in with fingertips and use sparing amounts. Excess use of Differin may irritate the skin further. Do not apply Differin cream/gel near the eyes, lips, nostrils or on any broken skin. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after use.

If you experience dry and irritated skin at the start of Differin treatment, you may want to try using Differin every other day and work up to daily treatment.

Sunlight and UV light should be avoided with use of Differin, this includes sunbeds.

Side effects include:

• itching
• dryness
• a warm/stinging sensation
• scaling
• redness or worsening of acne

However, this is usually just for the first couple of weeks of use and symptoms will start to settle with continued use. If any side effects get worse, please consult your doctor.